Humanistic Approach Definitions

Question 1

Define humanistic psychology

Answer 1

Approach to understanding human behaviour that emphasises the importance of subjective experiences and every individuals capacity for self-determination

Question 2

Define free will

Answer 2

Refers to the idea that humans can make choices about how to think and behave. Humans aren’t determined by internal and external forces beyond their control

Question 3

Define hierarchy of needs

Answer 3

Mallows model which illustrates the hierarchical sequence of physiological and psychological needs that must be met before someone is able gk achieve personal growth and reach self-actualization. Deficiency needs are physiological needs, safety and security needs, love and belonging needs, and self esteem needs. The growth need is self-actualisation

Question 4

Define physiological needs

Answer 4

First level of Maslows hierarchy. Deficiency needs that include food, warmth and rest

Question 5

Define safety and security needs

Answer 5

Second level of Maslows hierarchy. Deficiency needs that include personal security, employment and health

Question 6

Define love and belonging needs

Answer 6

Third level of Maslows hierarchy. Deficiency needs that include friendship, intimacy and family

Question 7

Define esteem needs

Answer 7

Fourth level. Deficiency needs that include respect, self-esteem and recognition

Question 8

Define self-actualisation

Answer 8

Top of hierarchy. This is a growth need and refers to a person’s innate desire to strive towards achieving their full potential

Question 9

Define the ideal self

Answer 9

Term used by Rogers to refer to the values and characteristics associated with the person you want to be

Question 10

Define the self concept

Answer 10

A term used by Rogers to refer to the values and characteristics that you perceive yourself to have

Question 11

Define congruence

Answer 11

When there is little or no gap between the self concept and the ideal self, you have become the person you want to be

Question 12

Define incongruence

Answer 12

When there is a mismatch between the self concept and the ideal self, you perceive yourself to be different to the person you want to be. Self-actualization isn’t possible

Question 13

Define conditions of worth

Answer 13

Where certain requirements are placed on an individual, that they need to meet in order to be accepted as worthy or to be loved

Question 14

Define unconditional positive regard

Answer 14

Where a person is wholly accepted and loved for who they are, regardless of the way they behave, or their beliefs

Question 15

Define client-centered therapy

Answer 15

A form of counselling which focuses on helping an individual achieve personal growth. This is achieved by the therapist being congruent with their client, providing unconditional positive regard and showing empathy towards them

Question 16

Define holistic

Answer 16

Humanistic psychology is holistic because it suggests that in order to understand behaviour, we need to understand the whole person, a holistic approach involves investigating all aspects of the individual as well as the interactions between people